Multi-use exercise apparatus

ABSTRACT

A multi-use exercise apparatus and methods of using same is disclosed. The multi-use exercise apparatus and methods of the invention may provide a means for performing both counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups. The multi-use exercise device may include a base member or portion, a foot member or portion, and a hand member or portion. Further, a method of using the multi-use exercise apparatus is provided.

CLAIM FOR PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/178,293, titled MULTI-USE EXERCISE APPARATUS AND METHODS OF USING SAME, filed in the U.S.P.T.O. on Apr. 22, 2021, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter of the present invention relates generally to exercise equipment and more particularly to a multi-use exercise apparatus and methods of using same.

BACKGROUND

Exercise routines may include push-ups. However, push-ups on the floor can be difficult for beginners and therefore beginners may need to start with knee push-ups. Unfortunately, many get discouraged from going down on their knees and then getting up for breaks between sets. Current push-up devices are limited to floor push-ups and are hard to perform especially for beginners. Additionally, bare hand push-ups and some of the currently available push-up devices can cause strain on the wrists that, if not performed correctly, may result in injury.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the subject matter of the present invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view photo of an example of a multi-use exercise device, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 illustrate an exploded side view and an assembled side view, respectively, of an example of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates detailed drawings of an example of the components of multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 1 and showing example dimensions thereof;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view showing more details of a hand member of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates detailed drawings of an example of the components of multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “base flat to surface” position;

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “base and foot to surface” position;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “hand flat to surface” position;

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “foot and hand to surface” position;

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “base and hand to surface” position;

FIG. 13 through FIG. 19 show various views of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7;

FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 show various views of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 5;

FIG. 22 through FIG. 26 show photos of an example of a user exercising with the multi-use exercise device, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 27 illustrates a flow diagram of an example of a method of using the multi-use exercise device, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 show photos of yet other examples of the multi-use exercise device, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 30 and FIG. 31 show photos of examples of the multi-use exercise device used as a mobile device stand, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B illustrate side views of examples of the multi-use exercise device including a wireless battery charger, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 33 through FIG. 37 show photos of examples of accessories that may be used with the multi-use exercise devices of the invention, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 38 shows a perspective view photo of an example of a multi-use exercise device, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 illustrate an exploded side view and an assembled side view, respectively, of an example of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 illustrate a side view when fully assembled, respectively, of an example of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 38;

FIG. 41 illustrates a side view showing more details of a hand member of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 38;

FIG. 42 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “base and foot to surface” position;

FIG. 43 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “base and foot to surface” position;

FIG. 44 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “hand flat to surface” position;

FIG. 45 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “foot and hand to surface” position;

FIG. 46 illustrates a side view of an example of the multi-use exercise device in the “base and hand to surface” position;

FIG. 47 shows a perspective view photo of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 40 and FIG. 41;

FIG. 48 shows a view of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 40 and FIG. 41;

FIG. 49a shows a view of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 40 and FIG. 41;

FIG. 49b shows a view of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device shown in FIG. 40 and FIG. 41;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of the present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The subject matter of the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the subject matter of the present invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated Drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the subject matter of the present invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

In some embodiments, the subject matter of the present invention provides a multi-use exercise apparatus and methods of using same. The multi-use exercise apparatus and methods of the invention may provide a means for performing both counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may be sized to be held in one hand and wherein the user may use a pair of multi-use exercise devices for performing standing push-ups and floor push-ups.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may include a base member or portion, a foot member or portion, and a hand member or portion.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may include a base member, a foot member, and a hand member and wherein the foot member may be arranged substantially orthogonal to the base member and at one end of base member.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may include a base member, a foot member, and a hand member and wherein the base member and the foot member may form an “L” shaped structure.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may include a base member, a foot member, and a hand member and wherein the hand member may be arranged at an angle on the side of the base member that is opposite the foot member and wherein the hand member and the foot member may be arranged near the same end of the base member.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may include a base member, a foot member, and a hand member and wherein the foot member may be arranged at, for example, in the range of about 90 degrees with respect to the base member and hand member may be arranged at, for example, in the range of about 45 degrees with respect to the base member.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may have utility in various orientations and/or positions, such as (1) the “base and hand to surface” position, (2) the “foot and hand to surface” position, (3) the “hand flat to surface” position, (4) the “base and foot to surface” position, and (5) the “base flat to surface” position.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide certain features and/or benefits, such as, but not limited to, (1) a push-ups training devices; (2) push-ups devices that may be compact and portable; (3) push-ups devices to help improve a user's upper body health; (4) push-ups devices providing users with good control of push-ups and the ability to target different muscle group(s); (5) push-ups devices that may help reduce strain on a user's wrist; (6) push-ups devices that may benefit beginners by providing an option for a safe and comfortable platform for building strength; and (7) push-ups devices that provide a means to perform standing push-ups using an elevated surface or platform with an edge, such as a countertop, table top, desktop, and the like.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a multi-use exercise device that may have an extended length and wherein the user may use one extended-length multi-use exercise device to perform standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups.

In some embodiments, the multi-use exercise apparatus and methods may provide a dual-purpose device that may be (1) a multi-use exercise device for performing counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups; and/or (2) a mobile device stand for holding any mobile device, such as a mobile phone and tablet device.

Further, a method of using the multi-use exercise apparatus is provided.

Referring now to FIG. 1 is a perspective view photo of an example of a multi-use exercise device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Multi-use exercise device 100 may include, for example, a base member 110, a foot member 120, and a hand member 130. Base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130 may be, for example, plate-shaped members that may be formed, for example, of wood, plastic (e.g., hard-plastic mold injection), metal (e.g., aluminum, steel), composite polymer-based materials, and the like. In the example of wooden and/or metal members, base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130 may be provided separately and then assembled, such as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. In the example of plastic members, base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130 may be formed together as one piece via an injection molding process. More details of an example of wooden multi-use exercise devices are shown and described hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 2 through FIG. 7, FIG. 39 through FIG. 41. Hand member 130 may be, for example, ball-shaped members that may be formed, for example, as shown in FIG. 49 of wood, plastic (e.g., hard-plastic mold injection), metal (e.g., aluminum, steel), composite polymer-based materials, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 is an exploded side view and an assembled side view, respectively, of an example of the multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1. In this example, foot member 120 may be arranged substantially orthogonal to base member 110 and at one end of base member 110. Particular to wooden members, base member 110 may include a groove 112 for receiving a tongue 122 of foot member 120. Together, base member 110 and foot member 120 form an “L” shaped structure. Hand member 130 may be arranged at an angle on the side of base member 110 that is opposite foot member 120. Foot member 120 and hand member 130 may be arranged near the same end of base member 110. Foot member 120 may include a notch 132 for receiving a corner edge of base member 110. FIG. 3 shows that foot member 120 may be arranged at an angle α1 with respect to base member 110. In one example, the angle α1 may be in the range of about 90 degrees. FIG. 3 also shows that hand member 130 may be arranged at an angle α2 with respect to base member 110. In one example, the angle α2 may be in the range of about 45 degrees.

Referring still to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, optionally, multi-use exercise device 100, may include one or more wedges 140. The one or more wedges 140 may provide additional structural support of multi-use exercise device 100. For example, optionally, multi-use exercise device 100 may include a wedge 140 at the outer intersection of base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130. Further, optionally, multi-use exercise device 100 may include a wedge 140 at the inner intersection of base member 110 and hand member 130. Further, optionally, multi-use exercise device 100 may include a wedge 140 at both locations.

Referring now to FIG. 4 is detailed drawings of an example of the components of multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1 and showing example dimensions thereof. In one example, the overall width of multi-use exercise device 100 may be in the range of about 4 inches. In this example, base member 110 may be in the range of about 4 inches wide, in the range of about 4 inches long, and in the range of about 0.75 inches thick. Foot member 120 may be in the range of about 4 inches wide, in the range of about 1.25-1.5 long (excluding tongue 122), and in the range of about 0.75 inches thick. Hand member 130 may be in the range of about 4 inches wide, in the range of about 3 inches long, and in the range of about 0.75 inches thick.

Referring now to FIG. 5 is a side view showing more details of hand member 130 of the multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1. In particular, FIG. 5 shows more details of notch 132 of hand member 130. FIG. 5 shows that the sides of notch 132 may be arranged at angles a3 with respect to the side of base member 110. In one example, the angles a3 may be in the range of about 135 degrees.

Referring now to FIG. 6 is a side view of an example of a multi-use exercise device 200, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Further, FIG. 7 is detailed drawings of an example of the components of multi-use exercise device 200 shown in FIG. 6. In this example, multi-use exercise device 200 may be substantially the same as multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 5 except that it may include certain rounded edges for improved comfort and/or aesthetics.

Additionally, with respect to forming any multi-use exercise device, multiple types of joints or other techniques or mechanisms are possible for coupling together base member 110, foot member 120, and/or hand member 130. For example, whereas multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 5 may include a tongue and groove type of joint for coupling base member 110 and foot member 120, multi-use exercise device 200 shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 may include a lock miter joint for coupling base member 110 and foot member 120. For example, base member 110 may include a lock miter joint 212. Further, foot member 120 may include a lock miter joint 222 and wherein lock miter joint 222 is designed to mate with lock miter joint 212 of base member 110. Lock miter joints 212, 222 may be, for example, in the range of about 45-degree lock miter joints multi-use exercise device 300 shown in FIG. 40 and FIG. 41 may include a miter butt joint for coupling base member 110 and foot member 120. For example, base member 110 may include a groove 113. Further, foot member 120 may include a groove 114 and wherein a biscuit is sandwiched as shown in FIG.39 and FIG. 40, for example, in the range of about 45-degree lock miter joints.

Referring now again to FIG. 1 through FIG. 7, FIG. 39 through FIG. 41, the multi-use exercise devices of the invention (e.g., multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300) are not limited to the size and shapes shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 7, FIG. 39 through FIG. 41. These are exemplary only. The multi-use exercise devices of the invention may include different surface size, topology, geometric form, bar, angle, swiveling, depth, materials, and the like. Additionally, the multi-use exercise devices of the invention are not limited to the tongue and groove joint (see FIG. 1 through FIG. 5) lock miter joint (see FIG. 6 and FIG. 7), miter butt joint (see FIG. 39 through FIG. 41). These are exemplary only. Other types of j oints or coupling techniques or mechanisms are possible in the multi-use exercise devices of the invention.

The multi-use exercise device of the invention, such as multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300 may have utility in various orientations and/or positions. For example, FIG. 8 through FIG. 12 is side views showing five different orientations and/or positions, respectively, of multi-use exercise device 200, 300.

In one example, FIG. 8 shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “base flat to surface” position. In this position, the L-shape of base member 110 and foot member 120 may be engaged in relation to the edge of a structure 300. In this example, structure 300 may be any elevated surface or platform with an edge, such as a countertop, table top, desktop, and the like. In this example, base member 110 is flat atop the countertop and while foot member 120 is flat against the front edge of the countertop, as shown, for example, in FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24. In the “base flat to surface” position, hand member 130 extends upward and provides the grip portion of multi-use exercise device 200. Further, in the “base flat to surface” position, hand member 130 may be, for example, in the range of about 45 degrees from horizontal.

In another example, FIG. 9 shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “base and foot to surface” position. In this position, base member 110 and foot member 120 provide the legs or feet of multi-use exercise device 200 for sitting atop a flat structure 300. Flat structure 300 may be any flat surface, such as the floor. In the “base and foot to surface” position, hand member 130 extends upward and provides the grip portion of multi-use exercise device 200. An example of the “base and foot to surface” position is shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26.

In yet another example, FIG. 10 shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “hand flat to surface” position. In this position, hand member 130 is placed flat atop structure 300 and with base member 110 and foot member 120 extending upward. In the “hand flat to surface” position, base member 110 and foot member 120 of multi-use exercise device 200 may provide a cradle for holding, for example, a mobile device, as shown, for example, in FIG. 30.

In yet another example, FIG. 11 shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “foot and hand to surface” position. In this position, foot member 120 and hand member 130 provide the legs or feet of multi-use exercise device 200 for sitting atop structure 300. In the “foot and hand to surface” position, base member 110 and hand member 130 of multi-use exercise device 200 may provide a cradle for holding, for example, a mobile device, as shown, for example, in FIG. 31. In this example, multi-use exercise device 200 may hold the mobile device at a more upright angle αs compared with the “hand flat to surface” position shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 30.

In still another example, FIG. 12 shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “base and hand to surface” position. In this position, base member 110 and hand member 130 provide the legs or feet of multi-use exercise device 200 for sitting atop structure 300 and with foot member 120 extending upward.

Referring now to FIG. 13 through FIG. 19 is various views of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device 200 shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. In this example, multi-use exercise device 200 is made of wood. For example, FIG. 13, FIG. 14, and FIG. 15 show multi-use exercise device 200 in the “foot and hand to surface” position as shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 16, FIG. 17, and FIG. 18 show multi-use exercise device 200 in the “base and foot to surface” position as shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 19 shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “hand flat to surface” position as shown in FIG. 10.

Referring now to FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 is various views of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 5. For example, FIG. 20 shows two views of multi-use exercise device 100 in the “base and foot to surface” position as shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 21 shows a view of multi-use exercise device 100 in the “hand flat to surface” position as shown in FIG. 10 and a view of multi-use exercise device 100 in the “base and hand to surface” position as shown in FIG. 12

Referring now to FIG. 22 through FIG. 26 is photos of an example of a user exercising with the multi-use exercise device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, FIG. 22 shows a user 305 using a pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 engaged with the edge of a countertop (e.g., structure 300) to perform counter or standing push-ups. In this example, user 305 places the multi-use exercise devices 100 in the “base flat to surface” position with the edge of the countertop as shown in FIG. 8. Further, the pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 are placed relatively close together (e.g., about body width apart). First, user 305 grips hand member 130 and with his/her arms extended such that his/her body is pushed away from the countertop. Then, user 305 bends his/her arms until his/her chest nearly touches the front edge of the countertop. Then, user 305 straightens his/her arms and pushes his/her body away from the countertop.

FIG. 23 shows substantially the same push-up exercise as shown in FIG. 22 except that the pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 are spaced more apart as compared with the spacing shown in FIG. 22. Next, FIG. 24 shows substantially the same push-up exercise as shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 except that the pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 are spaced yet more apart as compared with the spacing shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23. In the examples shown in FIG. 22, FIG, 23, and FIG. 24, with the multi-use exercise devices 100 in the “base flat to surface” position, hand member 130 may be about 40 degrees from horizontal, providing a safe and comfortable hand position for the user when performing a standing push-up.

FIG. 25 shows a user 305 using a pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 on the floor (e.g., structure 300) to perform floor push-ups. In this example, user 305 places the multi-use exercise devices 100 in the “base and foot to surface” position on the floor, as shown in FIG. 9. The pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 may be placed any comfortable distance apart. Further, the orientation or placement on the floor of, for example, foot member 120 of the multi-use exercise devices 100 is substantially parallel to a line crossing in front of the user 305′s body. First, user 305 grips hand member 130 and with his/her arms extended such that his/her body is pushed away from the floor. Then, user 305 bends his/her arms until his/her chest nearly touches the floor. Then, user 305 straightens his/her arms and pushes his/her body away from the floor.

FIG. 26 shows substantially the same push-up exercise as shown in FIG. 25 except that the orientation or placement on the floor of, for example, foot member 120 of the multi-use exercise devices 100 is substantially angled with respect to the line crossing in front of the user 305′s body. In this example, the user 305 may rotate slightly his/her hands and place the multi-use exercise devices 100 on the floor at any comfortable angle. In the examples shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26, with the multi-use exercise devices 100 in the “base and foot to surface” position, hand member 130 may be about 20 degrees from horizontal, providing a safe and comfortable hand position for the user when performing a floor push-up.

Further, in the push-up routines shown FIG. 22 through FIG. 26, user 305 may vary his/her feet position and arms distance comfortably by changing the feet distance and angel in order to target different muscle groups in the upper body.

Referring now to FIG. 27 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 400 of using the multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Method 400 may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

At a step 410, a pair of multi-use exercise devices are provided in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, a pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200 may be provided, as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 26.

At a step 415, a user selects the orientation or position of the multi-use exercise devices for performing push-ups. In one example, a user 305 desiring to perform counter or standing push-ups with respect to a countertop surface may hold the multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200 in the “base flat to surface” position (see FIG. 8). In another example, a user 305 desiring to perform floor push-ups with respect to a floor surface may hold the multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200 in the “base and foot to surface” position (see FIG. 9).

At a step 420, the user grasps the multi-use exercise devices and then places them on a surface for the desired type of push-ups. In one example, user 305 grasps the pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200 and then places them in the “base flat to surface” position against the edge of the countertop for performing counter or standing push-ups, as shown, for example, in FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24. In another example, user 305 grasps the pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200 and then places them in the “base and foot to surface” position against the floor for performing floor push-ups, as shown, for example, in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26.

At a step 425, the multi-use exercise devices are used to perform standing or floor push-ups. For example, the user 305 may perform counter or standing push-ups using multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200, as shown, for example, in FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24. In another example, the user 305 may perform floor push-ups using multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200, as shown, for example, in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26.

Referring now to FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 is photos of yet other examples of multi-use exercise device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one example, FIG. 28 shows that multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300 may include a layer of anti-slip material 142 on one or more surfaces of multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300. Anti-slip material 142 may be, for example, sponge material, memory foam material, silicon, rubber, and the like. The presence of anti-slip material 142 may serve to provide increased safety against slipping when in use for performing push-ups. Further, in some embodiments, the presence of anti-slip material 142 may allow multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300 to be provided absent foot member 120.

In another example, FIG. 29 shows an example of an extended-length multi-use exercise device 500 that may be used in place of multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300. Multi-use exercise device 500 may be any length that allows a user to grasp it with both hands. Multi-use exercise device 500 may have a length in the range of from about0.5 feet to about 8 feet (or longer) in one example or a length in the range of about 3 feet in another example. In the case of 8 feet long, multi-use exercise device 500 may be used by more than one person at the same time. In one example, while the small, lightweight, and portable multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300 may be suitable for personal use, the extended-length multi-use exercise device 500 may be suitable for commercial applications. Further, in some examples, the extended-length multi-use exercise device 500 may be substantially permanently affixed to a wall, single or tiered structure, multifunctional like ballet bars. Further, in some examples, the extended-length multi-use exercise device 500, may be, arranged in multiples of device 500 horizontally, vertically, aligned, staggered, at different elevation and distance from each other.

The use of the multi-use exercise devices of the present invention, as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 29, is not limited to push-up exercise devices. The multi-use exercise devices of the present invention may be used for other purposes. For example, a multi-use exercise device 100 or 200 may be used as a mobile device stand. For example, FIG. 30 and FIG. 31 show photos of examples of multi-use exercise device 100 used as a mobile device stand, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 30 shows multi-use exercise device 100 in the “hand flat to surface” position (see FIG. 10) and holding a mobile phone 600. Additionally, FIG. 31 shows multi-use exercise device 100 in the “foot and hand to surface” position (see FIG. 11) and holding a tablet device 605 or a mobile phone 600.

Referring now to FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B is side views of examples of multi-use exercise device 200 including a wireless battery charger, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, a disc-shaped wireless charger 250 may be installed on one or more surfaces of base member 110 of multi-use exercise device 200. The overall size and/or dimensions of the multi-use exercise device (e.g., multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300) may be adjusted to hold a certain wireless charger 250.

In one example, FIG. 32A shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “hand flat to surface” position (see FIG. 10) and with wireless charger 250 installed on the foot member 120-side of base member 110. In another example, FIG. 32B shows multi-use exercise device 200 in the “foot and hand to surface” position (see FIG. 11) and with wireless charger 250 installed on the hand member 130-side of base member 110.

Referring now to FIG. 33 through FIG. 37 is photos of examples of accessories that may be used with the multi-use exercise devices of the invention, such as multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

For example, FIG. 33 shows a chest-centered exercise device 700. Chest-centered exercise device 700 may be a device intended to be positioned in between a pair of multi-use exercise devices 100 or 200, 300. For example, chest-centered exercise device 700 may be centered between the left and right multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300, which is about chest-centered of the user (see FIG. 36). Features of chest-centered exercise device 700 may include, but are not limited to, (1) wider in size than multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300; (2) anti-slip material 142 on the side facing the user's chest and for added “padded” protection; and (3) a count button 144 to count the number of standing performed, which increments by the user pressing on count button 144 (e.g., the user's chest touching and pressing count button 144 with each push-up.

FIG. 34 shows an example of a foot stool exercise device 800. Foot stool exercise device 800 may be, for example, a sturdy, angled, and adjustable foot stool wherein the user places his/her feet on when performing push-ups. FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 show a set of exercise devices that may be used together. For example, the set may include chest-centered exercise device 700 arranged between a pair of multi-use exercise devices 100, all arranged at the edge of a counter top; and foot stool exercise device 800 on the floor.

FIG. 37 shows a side view of an example of an extender 900 used in combination with any multi-use exercise device of the invention, such as with multi-use exercise devices 200. Extender 900 may be, for example, multi-use exercise device 100 or 200 absent hand member 130 to form a simple L-shaped structure. Extender 900 may be designed to be fitted beneath multi-use exercise device 100 or 200 at the edge of a countertop and with multi-use exercise device 100 or 200 in the “base flat to surface” position (see FIG. 8).

When in use, extender 900 may be placed, wedged, hooked, or otherwise inserted between base member 110 and foot member 120 of multi-use exercise device 100 or 200 and the countertop. The purpose of extender 900 may be to increase the distance of multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300 from the countertop, allowing advanced users to perform a deeper push-up.

Referring now to FIG. 38 is a perspective view photo of an example of a multi-use exercise device 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Multi-use exercise device 300 may include, for example, a base member 110, a foot member 120, and a hand member 130. Base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130 may be, for example, plate-shaped members that may be formed, for example, of wood, plastic (e.g., hard-plastic mold injection), metal (e.g., aluminum, steel), composite polymer-based materials, and the like. In the example of wooden and/or metal members, base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130 may be provided separately and then assembled, such as shown in FIG. 39 and FIG. 40. In the example of plastic members, base member 110, foot member 120, and hand member 130 may be formed together as one piece via an injection molding process. More details of an example of wooden multi-use exercise devices are shown and described hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 39 through FIG. 41.

Referring still to FIG. 39, a foot member having an interior surface extending a first length in a first direction;

a base member having an interior surface extending a second length in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction to contact the interior surface of the foot member;

an interior notch formed by the contact of the interior surface of the foot member and the interior surface of the base member;

a hand member coupled to the base member and to the foot member opposite the interior notch and extending in a third direction to define an oblique angle with the interior surface of the foot member and with the interior surface of the base member.

Referring now to FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 is an exploded side view and an assembled side view, respectively, of an example of the multi-use exercise device 300 shown in FIG. 38. In this example, foot member 120 may be arranged substantially orthogonal to base member 110 and at one end of base member 110. Particular to wooden members, base member 110 may include a groove 113, and foot member 120 may include a groove 114 for inserting biscuit 112. Together, base member 110 and foot member 120 form an “L” shaped structure. Hand member 130 may be arranged at an angle on the side of base member 110 that is opposite foot member 120. Foot member 120 and hand member 130 may be arranged near the same end of base member 110. FIG. 40 shows that foot member 120 may be arranged at an angle α1 with respect to base member 110. In one example, the angle α1 may be in the range of about 90 degrees. FIG. 40 also shows that hand member 130 may be arranged at an angle α2 with respect to base member 110. In one example, the angle α2 may be in the range of about 45 degrees.

Referring still to FIG. 39 and FIG. 40, optionally, multi-use exercise device 300 may include one or more notch 133, notch 134 at the bottom of the base member 110. Furthermore, optionally, multi-use exercise device 300 may include one or more notch 135, notch 136 at the inside side of foot member 120. The one or more notches 133 through notch 136 are designed to house an anti-slip material such as rubber and an example. The one or more notches 133 to notch through notch136 may provide additional anti-slip support to multi-use exercise device 300. For example, optionally, multi-use exercise device 300 may include eliminate the notches 133 through notch 136 and use a stick-on anti-slip material on all or any of base member 110 and or foot member 120, respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 40 is a side view of an example of a multi-use exercise device 300, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Further, FIG. 41 is detailed drawings of an example of the components of multi-use exercise device 300 shown in FIG. 40. In this example, multi-use exercise device 300 may be substantially the same as multi-use exercise device 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 5, or device 200 shown in FIG. 6 through FIG. 7 except that it may include certain rounded edges for improved comfort and/or aesthetics and/or anti-slip materials.

Referring now to FIG. 41 is detailed drawings of an example of the components of multi-use exercise device 300 shown in FIG. 39 and showing example dimensions thereof. In one example, the overall width of multi-use exercise device 300 may be in the range of about 4 inches. In this example, base member 110 may be in the range of about 4 inches wide, in the range of about 4 inches long, and in the range of about 0.75 inches thick. Foot member 120 may be in the range of about 4 inches wide, in the range of about 1.25-2.5 long and in the range of about 0.75 inches thick. Hand member 130 may be in the range of about 4 inches wide, in the range of about 3.7 inches long, and in the range of about 0.75 inches thick.

The multi-use exercise device of the invention, such as multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300 may have utility in various orientations and/or positions. For example, FIG. 8 through FIG. 12, FIG. 42 through FIG. 46 are side views showing five different orientations and/or positions, respectively, of multi-use exercise device 100 and 300, respectively.

In one example, FIG. 42, respectively, shows multi-use exercise device 300 in the “base flat to surface” position. In this position, the L-shape of base member 110 and foot member 120 may be engaged in relation to the edge of a structure 300. In this example, structure 300 may be any elevated surface or platform with an edge, such as a countertop, table top, desktop, and the like. In this example, base member 110 is flat atop the countertop and while foot member 120 is flat against the front edge of the countertop, as shown, for example, in FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24. In the “base flat to surface” position, hand member 130 extends upward and provides the grip portion of multi-use exercise device 300. Further, in the “base flat to surface” position, hand member 130 may be, for example, in the range of about 45 degrees from horizontal.

In another example, FIG. 43 shows multi-use exercise device 300 in the “base and foot to surface” position. In this position, base member 110 and foot member 120 provide the legs or feet of multi-use exercise device 300 for sitting atop a flat structure 300. Flat structure 300 may be any flat surface, such as the floor. In the “base and foot to surface” position, hand member 130 extends upward and provides the grip portion of multi-use exercise device 300. An example of the “base and foot to surface” position is shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26.

In yet another example, FIG. 44 shows multi-use exercise device 300 in the “hand flat to surface” position. In this position, hand member 130 is placed on flat top structure 300 and with base member 110 and foot member 120 extending upward. In the “hand flat to surface” position, base member 110 and foot member 120 of multi-use exercise device 300 may provide a cradle for holding, for example, a mobile device, as shown, for example, in FIG. 30.

In yet another example, FIG. 45 shows multi-use exercise device 300 in the “foot and hand to surface” position. In this position, foot member 120 and hand member 130 provide the legs or feet of multi-use exercise device 300 for sitting atop structure 300. In the “foot and hand to surface” position, base member 110 and hand member 130 of multi-use exercise device 300 may provide a cradle for holding, for example, a mobile device, as shown, for example, in FIG. 31. In this example, multi-use exercise device 300 may hold the mobile device at a more upright angle αs compared with the “hand flat to surface” position shown in FIG. 44 and FIG. 30.

In still another example, FIG. 46 shows multi-use exercise device 300 in the “base and hand to surface” position. In this position, base member 110 and hand member 130 provide the legs or feet of multi-use exercise device 300 for sitting atop structure 300 and with foot member 120 extending upward.

Referring now to FIG. 47 is a perspective view photo of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device 300 shown in FIG. 39 and FIG. 40. In this example, multi-use exercise device 300 is made of wood. For example, FIG. 47 show a pair of the multi-use exercise device 300. One of the multi-use exercise device 300 in the “foot and base to surface” position as shown in FIG. 47, and one of the multi-use exercise device 300 in the “foot to surface and base on the base of the other device 300” position as shown in FIG. 47.

Referring now to FIG. 48 is a view of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300 shown in FIG.2, FIG.3, FIG. 6, FIG. FIG.7, 39 and FIG. 40. In this example, multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300, base member 110, foot member 120, hand member 130, wedge 140, may be, for example, members that may be formed, for example, of wood, plastic (e.g., hard-plastic mold injection), metal (e.g., aluminum, steel), composite polymer-based materials, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 49a , FIG. 49b is a view of an example instantiation of the multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300 shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 39 and FIG. 40. In this example, multi-use exercise device 300 hand member 130 is a ball-shaped, may be, used to be attached to base member 110 and foot member 120 as shown in FIG. 49a , or used as simplified stand-alone example of the device 100, 200, 300, as shown in FIG. 49 b.

Referring now to FIG. 49b , in this example, multi-use exercise device 300 hand member 130 is a ball-shaped. In this example, multi-use exercise device 300, foot member is considered the interior surface of hand member 130 extending a first length in a first direction;

a base member is considered the interior surface of hand member 130 extending a second length in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction of the interior surface of the hand member 130;

an interior notch formed of the first length in a first direction and the second length in a second direction.

Referring still to FIG. 49b , in this example, multi-use exercise device 300 hand member 130, may have, anti-slip materials at the first length in a first direction and/or on the second length in a second direction.

In summary and referring now again to FIG. 1 through FIG. 49, multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300, 500 and method 400 of the invention may provide a means for performing both counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups.

In some embodiments, multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300 may be sized to be held in one hand and wherein the user may use a pair of multi-use exercise devices 100, 200, 300 for performing counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups.

In some embodiments, multi-use exercise device 500 may have an extended length and wherein the user may use one extended-length multi-use exercise device 500 for performing counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups.

In some embodiments, multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300, 500 and method 400 may provide a multi-use exercise device that may have utility in various orientations and/or positions, such as (1) the “base and hand to surface” position (see FIG. 8), (2) the “foot and hand to surface” position (see FIG. 9), (3) the “hand flat to surface” position (see FIG. 10), (4) the “base and foot to surface” position (see FIGS. 11), and (5) the “base flat to surface” position (see FIG. 12).

In some embodiments, multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300, 500 and method 400 of the invention may provide certain features and/or benefits, such as, but not limited to, (1) a push-ups training devices; (2) push-ups devices that may be compact and portable; (3) push-ups devices to help improve a user's upper body health; (4) push-ups devices providing users with good control of push-ups and the ability to target different muscle group(s); (5) push-ups devices that may help reduce strain on a user's wrist; (6) push-ups devices that may benefit beginners by providing an option for a safe and comfortable platform for building strength; and (7) push-ups devices that provide a means for performing counter or standing push-ups using an elevated surface or platform with an edge, such as a countertop, table top, desktop, and the like.

In some embodiments, multi-use exercise device 100, 200, 300, 500 and method 400 of the invention may provide a dual-purpose device that may be (1) a multi-use exercise device for performing counter or standing push-ups and/or floor push-ups; and/or (2) a mobile device stand for holding any mobile device, such as a mobile phone and tablet device.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to “one or more” when used in this application, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a subject” includes a plurality of subjects, unless the context clearly is to the contrary (e.g., a plurality of subjects), and so forth.

Throughout this specification and the claims, the terms “comprise,” “comprises,” and “comprising” are used in a non-exclusive sense, except where the context requires otherwise. Likewise, the term “include” and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that can be substituted or added to the listed items.

For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, sizes, dimensions, proportions, shapes, formulations, parameters, percentages, quantities, characteristics, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the subject matter of the present invention. For example, the term “about,” when referring to a value can be meant to encompass variations of, in some embodiments ±100%, in some embodiments ±50%, in some embodiments ±20%, in some embodiments ±10%, in some embodiments ±5%, in some embodiments ±1%, in some embodiments ±0.5%, and in some embodiments ±0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods or employ the disclosed compositions.

Further, the term “about” when used in connection with one or more numbers or numerical ranges, should be understood to refer to all such numbers, including all numbers in a range and modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers, e.g., whole integers, including fractions thereof, subsumed within that range (for example, the recitation of 1 to 5 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as fractions thereof, e.g., 1.5, 2.25, 3.75, 4.1, and the like) and any range within that range.

Although the foregoing subject matter has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims. 

That which is claimed:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a foot member having an interior surface extending a first length in a first direction; a base member having an interior surface extending a second length in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction to contact the interior surface of the foot member; an interior notch formed by the contact of the interior surface of the foot member and the interior surface of the base member; a hand member coupled to the base member and to the foot member opposite the interior notch and extending in a third direction to define an oblique angle with the interior surface of the foot member and with the interior surface of the base member. 